Should You Add Services or Products? Here’s What Works Best
Miriam, a salon owner in Kampala, found herself stuck. She had loyal clients, decent walk-ins, and a good reputation — but the profits weren’t growing. One day, a customer asked, “Can I buy this hair oil you used on me?” That simple question sparked a new idea: should she add products to her services? Or perhaps offer something entirely new?
Miriam’s dilemma is common. If you’re running a small business in Uganda or Kenya, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Should I add products or services to grow?”
Let’s explore what works best — through real examples and practical guidance.
When Adding Products Makes Sense
Adding products is ideal if your customers love physical things and you’re looking to scale with less day-to-day involvement. Products can be sold repeatedly once created, and they help extend your brand into people’s homes.
Take Kevin, a Nairobi-based fitness trainer. He noticed clients asking for meal plans and workout tools. He created branded resistance bands and workout journals. Within three months, he was earning an extra 30% — and didn’t have to add more training hours to his week.
Best product ideas for service-based businesses:
Branded merchandise: T-shirts, mugs, or gym bottles
Digital products: Downloadable guides, templates, or checklists
Add-on tools: Think of a hairdresser selling brushes or oils
If you have access to suppliers, design tools, or a bit of capital — this path could be a game-changer.
When Services Are the Smart Move
Services are perfect if you’re already an expert in something. They require little to no startup cost and build strong client relationships through customization and personal attention.
Remember Zawadi, who owned a small phone accessories stall in Dar es Salaam. She kept hearing the same question: “Can you fix my screen?” Instead of saying no, she hired a technician, turned a corner of the shop into a mini-repair booth — and doubled her earnings per customer.
Top services for product-based businesses:
Installation & aftercare: From electronics to furniture
1:1 consults: For beauty, nutrition, business coaching
Paid subscriptions: Masterclasses, VIP groups, or expert Q&As
With services, your time becomes your product — so think about how much you can give before scaling.
Why the Hybrid Model Wins
The magic happens when you mix both. Think of it as a "combo meal" — one that keeps customers coming back for more.
Kampala’s FitFuel Café did just that. They sold healthy food packages (products), but also added weekly nutrition coaching (service). The result? Clients who bought both spent 45% more — and stayed longer.
Hybrid model examples:
A beauty shop selling products and offering skin consultations
A tech seller bundling gadgets with set-up services
A farm selling produce and hosting agri-tours
So, What’s Right for You?
Ask yourself:
What are my customers already asking for?
What fits naturally with what I already offer?
Which has better profit margins?
Do I have time (services) or capital (products)?
What’s trending in my space?
Quick Start Plan
Review customer feedback
Choose one low-risk product or service
Test it for 30 days
Measure time, cost, and profit
Scale what works
💬 Ready to grow smarter?
Whether you’re a Mombasa mechanic, a Gulu tailor, or a Nairobi baker — the right addition could unlock new income without a full business overhaul.
👉 Talk to Numida about how to fund and grow your next move.
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